Sadly, bullying is a serious issue in schools today. In the case of 13-year-old Mikayla Shirley, bullying had become a disruption to her learning and caused anxiety. Although her parents tried multiple times to resolve the issue with the district school, it wasn’t working.

When Michelle Shirley heard about Achievement House Cyber Charter School from a friend, she phoned right away.

I called several cyber charter schools, but the staff at Achievement House addressed our concerns and made us feel confident in choosing the school for our daughter’s education. We made the move in April 2014 and she loves it.

Mikayla lives in a rural area between Harrisburg and York, PA. At first glance she appears to be an average eighth grade student who enjoys texting, hanging out with friends, and music. But Mikayla is far from average—she is a gifted jazz singer with a soulful voice reminiscent of Ella Fitzgerald.

Her mother, Michelle, says her daughter started mimicking commercials in a “jazzy way” when she was seven.

“My husband and I just looked at each other and said, ‘Where did that come from?’” Michelle said. “She’s been singing ever since then.”

“I bought a Greatest Hits CD of Ella Fitzgerald and Louie Armstrong while at a yard sale when I was about 9 years old. I’d scat along with Ella and fill in Louie’s trumpet music with la-la-la, or do-do-da-da. His music sounded like singing to me,” said Mikayla.

Mikayla started singing in public three years ago; most recently was the NexGen Youth Arts Festival in Harrisburg. She is also a member of the Central Pennsylvania Friends of Jazz Youth Band, plays piano, has a vocal coach, and completes all of her homework on time.

“Achievement House has been so positive for me. Before I switched from my other school, sitting in a classroom building with all of that school drama was stressful. But Achievement House allows me the flexibility with rehearsal, performance, and practice schedules. Most of my school work can be completed before lunch which gives me time for music. They also have an Instant Message System for homework questions with peers. I found out that two of my friends go to Achievement House and I never even realized it,” said Mikayla.

Naturally, she wants to be a singer when she grows up. Although Mikayla says she doesn’t necessarily have to be a jazz singer, it’s the form she seems to gravitate toward.

Expressive singing can’t be taught—it comes from within—just like with the classic jazz icons. Mikayla is on her way to making her mark on the music world, and thanks to Achievement House, she has the needed flexibility to pursue her passion.

Mikayla’s next performance will be at the Ware Center at Millersville University on December 17, 2014 during the Next Generation Jazz event. She is also rehearsing to perform in Harrisburg’s Annual MLK Jr Dream Showcase in January at the Forum.

Check out Mikayla’s talent: